Application of super-element theory to crash-worthiness evaluation within the scope of the A.D.N. Regulations

Abstract

The design requirements for the carriage of dangerous goods by inland waterways include the provisions dealing with vessel survival capability and location of the cargo tank within the vessel, notably: • tankers are expected to survive the normal effects of flooding following damage externally caused • cargo tanks are required to be protected from penetration in the event of minor damage to the vessel, e.g. from handling alongside by tugs/pushers, and having as well a degree of protection from damage in the event of collision. • limitations are imposed to cargo tank size, intended to restrict the amount of cargo which may escape in the event of accidental breaching. Vessels not complying with the above design requirements shall be protected through a more crashworthy side structure. The crash-worthiness shall be proved by applying the method prescribed in section 9.3.4 of A.D.N., i.e., by comparing the risk of a conventional construction (reference construction), complying with the A.D.N. Regulations with the risk of a crashworthy construction (alternative construction). When the risk of the more crashworthy construction is equal to or lower than the risk of the conventional construction, equivalent or higher safety is proved. The equivalent or higher safety shall be proven using a probabilistic approach. In this thesis, crash-worthiness evaluation of a Type C inland tanker will be carried out through the instrumentality of the SHARP tool. The difference between the application of super-element and finite-element method will be presented in the light of Section 9.3.4. Alternative Constructions of A.D.N.. Finally, the risk of cargo tank rupture of the alternative construction in the aftermath of the collision will be assessed in order to provide a design with the better crash-worthiness by comparing the risk of cargo tank rupture with the conventional (reference) construction.